Policies And Procedures

Non-Discrimination Policy

The Music Institute, as part of Howard Community College, complies with all laws prohibiting discrimination in the conduct of its operations and programs. TMI admits students of any religion, race, color, national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

School Closings – Inclement Weather

The Music Institute follows the school closing policies of Howard Community College. Please view HCC’s inclement weather policy for more information.

Photo and Recording Policy

The Music Institute reserves the right, and may give permission to appropriate staff or outside media, to photograph and record (video or audio) classes, programs, and participants in all our facilities. Please be aware that these photos or recordings are for promotional purposes and may be used in future print or electronic publications and media communications. By participating in TMI programs, you consent to the video or audio recording or taking of photographs for these purposes. For more information on our photo and recording policy, or to discuss unique circumstances or concerns about this policy, please contact The Music Institute by email or by calling 443-518-4297.

Insufficient Class Enrollment/Cancellation

If any class or ensemble has insufficient enrollment, The Music Institute reserves the right to cancel or alter the class offering. If a class is cancelled, the tuition will be refunded in full (please note, fees are non-refundable). There are no refunds for classes, ensembles, or individualized coaching sessions that are in progress.

Dismissal

The Music Institute reserves the right to dismiss any student due to frequent absences, disciplinary problems, overdue tuition payments, and/or parental noncompliance with TMI policies.

Payment Policies

The student (or parent/guardian) is financially responsible for all classes and lessons registered and attended. Lessons may not begin until payment has been made. Payment may not be broken into multiple payments. Particularly if you are a new student, check the Spam or Junk folders in your email client. To be certain that you receive email communications, please add TMI@HowardCC.edu to your safe senders list.

Delinquent Accounts

The Music Institute reserves the right to suspend or discontinue instruction of any student delinquent in fulfilling his/her financial obligations at any time during a semester.

Refund Payments

Refund checks will be issued by the HCC business office within 21 business days after the written request is received. No refunds will be issued for classes, ensembles, or individualized coaching sessions that are in progress. Fees are non-refundable.

Attendance

A weekly attendance report will be maintained by the teacher and student, detailing lesson times, lengths, and any other pertinent details. It is imperative that both the teacher and student maintain good records using the Lesson Attendance Chart. In the case of any disputes about the number or length of lessons given and received, the Lesson Chart (which should have identical information) will be the accepted reference document rather than personal schedule books.

Tardiness

Tardy students cannot be guaranteed full lesson time. Instructors must stay on schedule for subsequent students.

Missed Lessons and Classes

Regular attendance is very important for students to fully develop their musical abilities. Students are charged for all lessons or classes for which they register, including those missed due to student absence. As a courtesy, students are expected to directly notify their teachers of any impending absence from lessons. Instructors are not required to make up lessons missed by students.

Lessons canceled by the teacher will be rescheduled, as are lessons canceled due to weather or other emergency or school closure. The Music Institute follows the school closing policies of Howard Community College.

Child Safety

To ensure your child’s safety, please be sure to pick them up promptly after class or lesson time. The Music Institute faculty and staff do not supervise children waiting in HCC’s hallways before and/or after classes or lessons. Children are under supervision during their instruction time only. Neither instructors nor administrators are responsible for supervising children outside of teaching time.